BLACK PAPA

BLACK PAPA’s “black tonkatsu” has caught diners’ attention for its fragrant crust and pleasantly savoury flavour. Visitors who come for freshly fried tonkatsu have commented on the crisp coating and tender meat. The “Classic Pork Loin Tonkatsu Set Meal” pairs a pork loin cutlet with fried chicken, pork miso soup and rice-bran pickles. Choose white rice or wholesome rice made with super barley, whole barley and millet; a large serving of rice is free with set meals. It’s a satisfying option, with a choice of rice to suit your preference.

There are also curries topped with fried dishes. Options include pork loin and tenderloin cutlets, minced-meat cutlets, fried horse mackerel and fried squid; each comes with pork miso soup and salad. Some diners have enjoyed the curry, though opinions vary, so you might prefer to choose a set meal or a fried topping you already like. One diner who tried the katsudon—a pork cutlet rice bowl—described it as generously sauced, with the broth soaking into the coating. It offers a different way to enjoy the cutlet from the crisp pork loin set meal.

For a beer with your meal, there are single fried items as well as set meals. Fried horse mackerel and pork tenderloin cutlets can be ordered by the piece, and fried chicken by the piece, making them an option for a casual evening drink and a bite. Set meals and individual dishes are served late, too. The restaurant is usually closed on Tuesdays and opens for lunch and dinner on other days, with evening service until 1:00 the following day. It’s worth keeping in mind when looking for a late meal in Asakusa.